LA FORTUNA | COSTA RICA
Elopement Photographer in La Fortuna, Costa Rica
I’m Joice Dahianna — for 8+ years I’ve captured Costa Rica’s most intimate elopements, micro weddings, and private ceremonies, no full-wedding logistics required. Jungle vows at La Fortuna Waterfall, volcano views from Arenal Observatory Lodge, the Los Lagos Hotel viewpoint.
As your La Fortuna elopement photographer, I build your timeline around Arenal’s light and bring a second photographer, so every unscripted moment is captured as it happens.
WATERFALL ELOPEMENTS | JUST THE TWO OF YOU | VOLCANO VIEW CEREMONIES
CURATED LOCATIONS
Why La Fortuna Is the Elopement Destination in Costa Rica
La Fortuna sits in the shadow of Arenal Volcano — rainforest, waterfalls, and volcanic lava fields within a 30-minute radius of each other. As your elopement photographer in La Fortuna, I’ve hand-picked the locations that make the most striking, adventurous backdrops for an intimate ceremony.
Here’s what makes each one worth considering.
La Fortuna Waterfall
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
Parque Ecológico Volcán Arenal
Viewpoint, Hotel Los Lagos
Arenal 1968
El Salto, Río La Fortuna
01 – Waterfall Elopement
La Fortuna Waterfall
A couple favorite, and it’s easy to see why. This 70-meter waterfall inside the Arenal Volcano National Park’s biological reserve is one of Costa Rica’s most dramatic elopement backdrops. The descent — 500 steps, with rest stops along the way — opens onto a rainforest-framed viewpoint where couples exchange vows, symbolic or legal.
Finish with a swim in the river below for an ending as adventurous as the ceremony itself. No drones permitted; entrance fee applies.
02 – Nature Reserve & Trails
Arenal Observatory Lodge & Spa
Set on 870 acres inside the national park, with direct volcano views from multiple points on the property, tropical gardens, hanging bridges, and its own waterfalls.
Couples elope here for the range of settings within one location — a 3–4 hour walking loop lets you move between lookout points, forest trails, and photogenic bridges without ever leaving the grounds.
03 – Volcano Lookout
Viewpoint, Hotel Los Lagos
A framed lookout point with an unobstructed view of Arenal Volcano and Los Juncos Lake — ideal for elopements with a handful of guests, under cover, with seating built in. Just 2.8 km from the main resort, it privatizes for approximately $300 and offers one of the most photogenic “window to the volcano” moments in the area.
Drone photography permitted.
An ideal spot for couples who want an elevated, intimate elopement moment surrounded by nature.
04 – Lava Trail & Private Reserve
Arenal 1968
Named for the volcano’s last major eruption, this private, nature-surrounded property offers volcano, lake, and mountain views from nearly every angle.
For couples wanting to get closer to the source, the lava trail hike brings you within reach of the volcano itself — a natural fit for a more adventurous elopement. No drones permitted.
05 – Lagoon & Lava Flows
Parque Ecológico Volcán Arenal
Over 100 hectares of tropical forest with panoramic volcano views and the natural Tabacón Lagoon at its center. Say your vows dockside overlooking the water, then take portraits from a boat on the lagoon or for the bold, finish with the Tarzan swing into the lake.
Three trail systems, over 8 km total, lead to the volcano’s lava flows. Drone photography permitted.
06 – Riverside Ceremony
El Salto, La Fortuna river
A riverside setting inside the forest with minimal hiking required — ceremony steps from the water, with the option to wade in right after you say “I do.” Best suited to the dry season, when the river runs calm and clear. No drones permitted.
REAL ELOPEMENTS
Real Elopements in La Fortuna
Explore real elopements photographed along the road to La Fortuna and around the Arenal Volcano region — each celebration reflecting the couple’s own story, planned with intention and captured with care.
Browse the moments below for genuine inspiration and a true sense of what your own La Fortuna elopement could feel like.
02
Elena & Justin
EL SALTO & ARENAL OBSERVATORY LODGE
They planned their elopement for rainy season, and that same joyful spirit shaped their day, dancing through the rain for beautifully romantic photos.
01
Julia & Chad
LA FORTUNA WATERFALL
Julia & Chad chose La Fortuna Waterfall for their elopement — vows exchanged on the jungle-framed mirador beside the falls, with a swim in the river below to close out the day.
Why Choose an Elopement Photographer in La Fortuna?
“My journey as an elopement photographer began right here in La Fortuna — I lived in this rainforest for two years before ever picking up a camera, and eight years later, I still return almost weekly.”
Local Knowledge, Earned Over Years
I know this land the way only someone who’s spent real time in it can — which trails lead to hidden waterfalls, which hot springs feel most private, and why the lookout at Hotel Los Lagos remains one of my favorite spots for photos.
Built for the Adventure
Chasing the best light here means being ready for anything — a 500-step descent to a waterfall, a scramble along the lava trail, or a sudden downpour mid-ceremony. I show up ready to adventure right alongside you: rain gear packed, backup gear on hand, drone ready whenever the sky and location allow.
A Trusted Local Team
Beyond photography, years of working here mean I’ve built a trusted team around me — florists, videographers, makeup artists, officiants, and an elopement planner who all know this area as well as I do. That matters most when the weather turns: everyone already knows how to read the sky and pivot to a plan B without missing a beat.
Elevated Elopement Photography in La Fortuna - Golden Light, Volcanic & Real Moments.
Planning an elopement near Arenal Volcano deserves storytelling that's thoughtfully crafted and truly reflects your celebration, capturing every genuine moment along the way.
— PACKAGES
Elopement Photography Packages in La Fortuna
From USD 1,450
Every elopement package includes two photographers and a custom itinerary built around Arenal's light.
Coverage hours — 2 to 6 hours
2 Photographers
Photography-focused itinerary planning, prep tips
Professionally edited, high-resolution images
Private online gallery (1 year) + printing rights
Gallery delivered within 31 days.
AVAILABLE ADD-ONS
Videography — for a more cinematic touch, we work alongside a trusted videographer we love collaborating with (subject to availability).
Full Planning Experience — our team handles decor, a champagne toast, site permits, dinner and more.
TWO PHOTOGRAPHERS, ALWAYS INCLUDED
Every package includes a second photographer — never an add-on — so your elopement day is always beautifully captured from two different angles and two full perspectives, making sure nothing important is ever missed.
HOW TIMELINE GUIDANCE WORKS
Once you share your ceremony plan, we review it to pinpoint the best light for your vows, the ideal window for portraits, and any adjustments to make your photos shine.
DO YOU OFFER DRONE PHOTOGRAPHY?
Drone footage is part of our equipment, though not a fixed package feature — it depends on weather and location authorization. When both align, we're happy to use it, though it's never guaranteed.
YOUR DAY
What to Expect on Your Elopement Day
Every elopement in La Fortuna looks different — here's how to think through your timeline, your guest list, and what to pack.
Build Your Own Timeline
Your timeline comes down to how much you want to fit into the day. Two hours is ideal for something shorter and simpler — minimal walking, your ceremony, a toast, and a newlywed photo session. Four hours opens up more ground: moving between spots, walking along lagoon views or lava rock trails, and finishing with a ceremony framed by the volcano when it's clear. Prefer something calmer? We can build your day around getting-ready photos, a first look, your ceremony, and a relaxed couple's session — no long hikes required.
How Many People Can Join
Most elopements are just the two of you — but some couples choose to invite a handful of close family or friends. Groups of 10 to 15 still work beautifully as an elopement; the main difference is pace. With guests along, most couples lean toward a calmer day rather than a full adventure itinerary.
What to Bring for an Adventurous Elopement
If you're set on the more adventurous route — hikes, lava trails, waterfall descents — come prepared: comfortable walking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, snacks, and a rain layer or umbrella for La Fortuna's unpredictable afternoons.
Full-Service Planning
Want the full elopement experience in La Fortuna? Our trusted planning partner can handle the venue, décor, officiant, logistics & coordination — so you can simply show up and enjoy your day.
Testimonials
Real Couples. Real Reactions
These are the words of people who trusted Joice Dahianna as their La Fortuna elopement photographer — and received candid, emotional images they'll keep forever.
Hotel Los Lagos, La Fortuna
Joice and Diego made us feel incredibly comfortable and at ease. They have such a beautiful energy and captured every detail in such a natural and meaningful way. The final result completely exceeded our expectations, and the photos reflect exactly how that day felt.
Arianna Parmigiani
The Springs Arenal Resort
Thank the universe for bringing Joice and her team into my life during my wedding journey. She captured every beautiful detail perfectly, taking my dreams and turning them into stunning memories — the quality, warmth, and professionalism were outstanding.
Cin Kokuen
Nayara Springs
We can't thank Joice enough for the stunning photos from our wedding. Every single picture is absolutely beautiful, and we are truly impressed with the final results. Joice has an amazing ability to capture every moment in such a unique and special way.
Fany & Phil
----- MORE REVIEWS ON GOOGLE -----
Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. WOW!! I cannot say enough good things about Joice and her photography team. We had a surprise proposal in Costa Rica and they made the experience amazing. The moment we got to the spot they were well hidden so the surprise wouldn’t be ruined. They shot the proposal and pictures afterward. When we received the album back it was better than we could’ve imagined. I highly recommend using Joice and her team for photos!!Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. El mejor equipo de fotos y video! Nos sentimos super comodos! Y divino tooodo! Lo améPosted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. ¡La mejor decisión que tomamos fue escoger a Joyce como nuestra fotógrafa! Desde la sesión de fotos de compromiso nos enamoramos de su trabajo. Las fotos quedaron espectaculares y desde ese momento supimos que queríamos que fuera quien capturara también el día de nuestra boda. Además de tener un talento increíble, trabajar con Joyce es un verdadero placer. Es un amor de persona, transmite una energía lindísima y hace que todo se sienta natural y sin estrés. Gracias a eso disfrutamos muchísimo tanto la sesión de compromiso como el día de la boda. Cuando recibimos las fotos de la boda volvimos a revivir cada momento. Logró capturar todas las emociones y los detalles de una forma preciosa, y no podríamos estar más felices con el resultado. Sin duda la recomendaría una y mil veces, y volvería a contratarla para cualquier otro momento especial. ¡Gracias, Joyce, por regalarnos recuerdos tan lindos que vamos a atesorar para siempre! ❤️❤️❤️Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Working with Joice for our surprise proposal was truly one of the best decisions my fiancé made. She captured one of the most important moments of our lives so beautifully, and every photo brings us right back to that day. Her eye for detail, ability to capture genuine emotion, and calm, encouraging presence made the experience even more special. We are beyond grateful to have these memories preserved so perfectly. If you’re looking for a photographer who genuinely cares and delivers stunning photos, I cannot recommend Joice enough. Thank you for giving us memories we’ll cherish forever!Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Joice is excellent and was the perfect choice for our wedding day. Her online gallery is stunning and I only dreamed ours could be captured the same. Start to finish Joice was very easy to work with, reasonably priced, and incredibly sweet. Picture turnaround was quick with an abundance of gorgeous photos to pick from.Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Desde el primer momento nos hicieron sentir demasiado cómodos y tranquilos. Tienen una vibra súper linda Durante la boda captaron cada detalle de una forma súper natural y especial, y el resultado final superó completamente nuestras expectativas. Las fotos transmiten exactamente cómo se sintió ese día, la emoción, la felicidad y todos esos momentos tan especiales Además de su talento, el trato y la dedicación fueron increíbles durante todo el proceso genuinamente se preocuparon por que disfrutáramos cada momento Solo tengo un problema. Las fotos quedaron tan hermosas que no se cuales imprimir ni compartir No podríamos estar más felices con el resultado. Súper recomendados 🤍Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Hola Nuestra experiencia con Joyse fue maravillosa!!! Hicimos una cesión de fotos madre he hija. Y bueno. Nos tuvo mucha paciencia. Siempre fue atenta con los detalles. Comunicativa y con la dedicación que requiere un adulto mayor de 89 años. Así que recomiendo muchísimo sus servicios. Es una joven profesional, talentosa y con mucho carismaPosted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Dahianna y Diego fueron una extraordinaria elección para congelar la memoria de una etapa muy importante de nuestra familia a través de las fotos, desde el min 1 nos inspiraron confianza, amistad y un trato hermoso, nos tuvieron máxima paciencia especialmente a mis pequeños en un clima retador de 37 grados, con un resultado espectacular…. Ver esas fotos, es un sueño hecho realidad!! Siempre estaré agradecidaPosted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Quedé encantado con el servicio. Al principio estaba un poco nervioso, ya que no vivo cerca de Costa Rica y todo lo estaba organizando a distancia para una propuesta de matrimonio muy importante para mí. A pesar de que siempre fue muy profesional y clara en todos sus mensajes, no deja de existir ese miedo cuando contratas un servicio en línea. Sin embargo, superó completamente mis expectativas. Antes de la propuesta me ayudó en absolutamente todo: planeamos cada detalle y todo salió exactamente como lo imaginé. Durante el momento, fue increíblemente profesional, atenta y con la mejor actitud. Nos hizo sentir muy cómodos en todo momento. Si pudiera repetir la experiencia, sin duda la contrataría mil veces más. No van a perder su tiempo ni su dinero — es, sin duda, la mejor opción.Posted on GoogleTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We had such a wonderful experience working with Joice and Diego for our wedding in Costa Rica. From the very beginning, they went out of their way to support us and were incredibly attentive all the way up to the wedding day. We really appreciated the tender care and thoughtfulness they gave to all of our requests. They made us feel heard, supported, and genuinely cared for throughout the process, which meant so much during such a special and emotional time. And the photos were absolutely beautiful. They captured everything so naturally and artistically, and we were also delightfully surprised by the drone footage — such an amazing bonus that made our memories feel even more cinematic and special. Joice and Diego are truly an excellent team. We loved their energy and felt so comfortable with them. We would absolutely recommend them to anyone planning an elopement or wedding in Costa Rica!Posted on Google
PLANNING AHEAD
Planning an elopement in La Fortuna? Let's check if your date is available.
EXPERTS IN ELOPEMENT PHOTOGRAPHY & PLANNING
Meet Your Costa Rica Elopement Photography & Planning Team
We're a Costa Rica–based team of two photographers and a dedicated wedding planner, with over 8 years photographing destination weddings across Costa Rica and beyond. From beach ceremonies to rainforest elopements to full-day celebrations, we cover every angle of your day — a second shooter and drone coverage on the photography side, and seamless planning behind the scenes, so nothing is left to chance.
Joice Dahianna
Lead Photographer & Founder
Joice works exclusively as a destination wedding photographer in Costa Rica, guiding every couple with genuine care from first consultation to final delivery. She's your main point of contact throughout, and also leads the creative direction and marketing behind the brand itself.
Diego Ramírez
Second Shooter & Drone Pilot
Diego is the second photographer on every wedding, capturing key moments from a different angle so nothing gets missed. He's also the drone pilot behind every aerial shot, and the one filming the behind-the-scenes videos you'll see across the brand's social media.
The White Wedding
Experience Planner
Ceilyn Castro designs and coordinates the experience behind proposals, elopements and weddings, so couples can stay fully present while every detail unfolds seamlessly. From planning and logistics to personal touches, she creates the ideal environment for unforgettable moments — the kind meant to be beautifully captured.
Things to Do in La Fortuna Around Your Elopement
Your elopement is also your trip together — here's what makes La Fortuna worth exploring before or after your ceremony, whether you're staying for the weekend or turning it into a longer Costa Rica getaway.
Arenal Volcano National Park
Guided trails wind through rainforest and old lava fields at the base of the volcano — an easy way to spend the morning together before your ceremony, with panoramic views neither of you will forget.
Lake Arenal — Boat Tours & Kayaking
From a slow boat ride to paddling across calm morning waters, Lake Arenal is an easy, scenic way to spend a quiet afternoon together — before the celebration, or as your own little honeymoon moment once it's over.
Mistico Hanging Bridges Park
Walk suspended above the rainforest canopy at Mistico Park — one of La Fortuna's most iconic experiences, and a memorable way to spend a morning together before your vows.
Natural Hot Springs
Thermal pools fed naturally by the volcano are the perfect way to unwind together the night before your ceremony — or to celebrate, just the two of you, once it's done.
Scenic Viewpoints
Several lookout points around town offer postcard views of Arenal Volcano — perfect for a quiet morning walk together, or a sunset moment the evening before your elopement.
La Fortuna Waterfall
A short hike leads to this iconic waterfall and natural pool — one of the most photographed spots in the region, and a beautiful way to spend an afternoon together after your elopement.
Planning Ahead
Best Time of Year for Elopements in La Fortuna
La Fortuna's weather shifts throughout the year, and after 8 years photographing here, we've learned when the volcano tends to clear — sunrise, sunset, and often right after a heavy afternoon downpour. Temperatures stay steady between 24-27°C (75-81°F) with high humidity year-round, and on clear days, the golden hour light against the volcano is unlike anywhere else in Costa Rica.
Dry Season | December – April
The most requested season for outdoor ceremonies, with the best odds of a clear volcano at sunrise and sunset. Weather stays sunny and predictable — though even here, a clear view is never fully guaranteed.
Green Season | May – November
Mornings tend to stay clear, with skies often opening up again after a strong afternoon downpour — a pattern we've seen repeat for years. Rainforest colors turn richer, and an indoor backup keeps every elopement day worry-free.
Heaviest Rains | July – September
These months bring the heaviest rain, sometimes causing landslides or flooded rivers along the roads into La Fortuna. Indoor luxury venues remain a stunning, safe alternative for your ceremony.
Travel in Costa Rica
Getting to La Fortuna for Your Elopement Day
La Fortuna is easily reached from Costa Rica's two international airports. The route from Liberia is often the easier drive, winding along the shores of Lake Arenal, while San José tends to involve more traffic leaving the city.
For couples and guests who prefer to fly, a small local airstrip sits just minutes away.
From San José
Juan Santamaría Int'l Airport
Expect heavier traffic leaving the city and airport area. Private transportation or shuttle services are available directly to La Fortuna, making the drive easy despite the busier roads.
From Liberia
Daniel Oduber Int'l Airport
A smoother, more rural drive with far less traffic than from San José — and the most scenic route, tracing the shores of Lake Arenal along the way. Private and shuttle transportation available.
Local Airstrip
La Fortuna Airstrip
Sansa Airlines operates the only flights to La Fortuna, at roughly $457 per couple round trip — a fast, scenic option for couples and guests who'd rather skip the drive entirely.
GOOD TO KNOW
FAQs
Everything couples usually ask before booking their La Fortuna elopement photography — if your question isn't here, write to Joice directly.
Do I Have to Walk a Lot for My Elopement?
It depends on which location you choose and how much adventure you want in your day — walking times vary a lot between our curated spots. Some, like the viewpoint at Hotel Los Lagos, require little more than a short walk; others, like the 500-step descent to La Fortuna Waterfall or the lava trail at Arenal 1968, call for more effort. Once you pick your locations, that shapes the pace and timeline of your elopement.
Can You See Arenal Volcano Year-Round?
Not always — it really depends on the weather. Cloud cover is common in La Fortuna, and it can hide the volcano at different times throughout the year. Your best chances for a clear, unobstructed view are early morning, before the clouds build, and during dry season (December–April). Even if the volcano decides to stay wrapped in clouds on your elopement day, this place still feels magical — the mist, the rainforest, and the golden light create their own kind of beauty, and we always know how to make the most of it for your photos.
Can we shoot at Arenal Volcano trails and viewpoints?
Yes, depending on the exact location and access rules. Some areas may require permits or have specific regulations, so I’ll guide you toward the best options.
Do you offer drone photography in La Fortuna?
Yes, where permitted. Drone use always requires prior authorization from the venue — it's not allowed inside national parks, near airports for safety reasons, or near guest rooms out of respect for privacy. We coordinate approval with your resort ahead of time to see what's possible for your day.
Do We Need A Legal Marriage, Or Is A Symbolic Ceremony Better For Us?
Both are common here — it's almost an even split. Many couples legally marry back home in the U.S. beforehand, then come to La Fortuna purely for their symbolic ceremony: reading their vows, taking their photos, and celebrating with family without any paperwork getting in the way.
For symbolic ceremonies, we work with a wonderful officiant who builds her ceremonies around cacao rituals — deeply emotional and personal.
For legal marriages, we work with two trusted officiants who go beyond the legal requirements to make the ceremony feel just as meaningful. By the time couples reach out to us, they usually already know which one they want.
Do I Need An Elopement Planner In La Fortuna?
It's not required, but strongly recommended for destination elopements — especially for legal ceremonies, permits at certain venues, and coordinating vendors across a rural area like La Fortuna.
How Far In Advance Should I Book My La Fortuna Elopement Photographer?
We recommend booking 6–12 months in advance, especially for dry-season dates (December–April), which fill up quickly. That said, if you have less time, feel free to reach out anyway — we may still have an opening available.
GET IN TOUCH
Yes, Let's Do This!
Tell me a little about your celebration and I'll get back to you personally to start planning your wedding photography in Costa Rica.
photo@joicedahianna.com
Based in Monteverde, Costa Rica. We travel to La Fortuna, Tamarindo, Manuel Antonio, throughout Costa Rica, and around the world.
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